“Education is the Key to Success” proclaimed the
annual Norouz Celebration and Scholarship evening hosted by the Society of
Iranian American Women for Education, which awards scholarships to young
Iranians in Texas. The elegant bazaar and dinner observed the Iranian New Year
with dining, shopping and a celebration of culture and community. Chaired by
Mehrnaz Gill and Malekeh Nezam-Mafi, the fête featured speaker Rice University
president David Leebron. Toasting Persian style: opera singer Pari Zangeneh and
pianist/conductor Hooman Khalatbari; emcee Lila Sharifian; and SIAWE president
Shoaleh Shirvani Nosrati.